Artur Ischakov (source: Soňa Niková/slovenskybiatlon.sk)
In a pre-Olympic season, Slovakia’s junior biathletes are beginning to shine. Among the rising stars like Jakub Borguľa, Šimon Adamov, and Matej Badáň, one name stands out—Artur Ischakov.
The 20-year-old Kazan native joined Slovakia’s national team this year, having already competed in Slovak Cup events over the past two seasons, writes Sportnet. Initially coached by Daniel Kuzmin, he now trains under Lukáš Daubner, preparing to make his mark in international biathlon.
A promising start cut short
Ischakov showed glimpses of his potential by winning the men’s nomination race in Obertilliach, Austria, before the season began, impressing with his running performance. Yet, in his first race in Slovak colours at the IBU Cup, he finished 42nd, missing just one target on the shooting range but falling short of his own high expectations.
“I wasn’t satisfied. It was clear I have a lot of work ahead,” he said. “I want to fight for podiums, not settle for 30th or 40th places.”
Unfortunately, Ischakov’s ambitions hit a snag after a freak accident on his way to the stadium left him with a broken bone in his left hand.
From Russia to Slovakia
Ischakov’s journey to Slovakia began with an email to the Slovak Biathlon Association. The young biathlete had seen his opportunities in Russia diminish due to pandemic restrictions and later the international isolation of Russian athletes following the war in Ukraine.
Inspired by Russian commentators frequently mentioning Slovak biathletes like the Fialková sisters and Anastasia Kuzminova, Ischakov saw Slovakia as a natural fit. The Slovak association supported his transition, but it wasn’t handed to him—he had to prove himself in the Slovak Cup before earning a place in the national team.
Learning from the best
Anastasia Kuzminova, herself a Russian-born athlete who achieved her greatest successes under the Slovak flag, became a mentor to Ischakov. “We trained together, and she helped me with my preparation. Our stories are similar, and I hope to one day achieve what she has,” he said.
Despite a rocky start and his current injury, Ischakov remains undeterred. His goals for the season are clear: qualify for the World Cup, make his mark at the World Championships, and compete for top-20 finishes in the IBU Cup.
“I know it won’t be easy, especially with the strong competition in the national team, but I believe in my ability to succeed,” he says. For now, his comeback is scheduled for January, when he plans to return stronger and more determined than ever.
